New SDAs

[CTTE]

I'm looking for information on getting the most out of a pair of SDA 2.3Tl's that I bought that were For Sale on this forum. I'd like to get your opinions on what I should do to get the most out of these, spending as little $ as possible.

I use these for HT and 2 channel; my system consists of:
HK AVR-247
SDA's front
CSi5 center
Monitor 7's surround

I know I need more power for the SDA's and I'm leaning towards getting an Emotiva XPA-3 to power the fronts. I'm not looking for more volume, but more definition in the listenable range. From what I read on the Emotiva site, their class H amp may be more what I'm looking for, but it's only offered in a 7 channel version. Is anyone using the XPA-3 or -7 with SDAs, and how do you like it?

Also, I got RDO tweeters with these but there are no markings on them. I would like to verify that they are the proper replacement - should I ask Ken Swauger? Is this his proper email address: KSwauger@polkaudio.com

Thanks

[Ron Temple]

My memory is vague, but I called Emo awhile ago to ask about (I think) the XPA 5 and SDAs. Dann G was going to ask Lonnie if it was common ground and the answer was no...same with the RPA. I could be wrong, so you might want to ask Emo. I'd start with picking up an amp first.

[leroyjr1]

I got two Adcom 555II sitting in my closet waiting till I get my hands on either sda 1.2 or 2.3's

[CTTE]

Thanks, Ron. I forgot to check if the Emos are common ground or not.

[ben62670]

I like large Adcom's like the GFA-555, 585, or 565 mono blocks for big SDA's. I have driven them hard, taken readings from the power supplies inside the amp, and they just don't stutter. Adcom's are great value for the buck, and drive SDA's with authority. Leroy has a 555 for $300 here. You just can't beat it for that kind of money period. Can you pull a tweeter, and post a pic?
Enjoy
Ben

[F1nut]

your opinions on what I should do to get the most out of these, spending as little $ as possible.

That is what you call an oxymoron.

They deserve better than what you're thinking about. Upgrading the crossovers will go a long way too.

The RD0198-1's do not have markings. Since they came with them, they have to be the right ones as the RD0194-1's have a different size terminal blade.

[CTTE]

This is The House of Dead Batteries. I'll have to get some charged up before I can take a pic of a tweeter. I saw the Adcom for sale. I was just thinking it would be good to power the whole front for HT purposes, but I've only been listening to 2 channel since I got these SDAs, and that's what needs fixed!

[CTTE]

They deserve better than what you're thinking about. Upgrading the crossovers will go a long way too.

The RD0198-1's do not have markings. Since they came with them, they have to be the right ones as the RD0194-1's have a different size terminal blade.

I'm sure that a crossover upgrade is in my future, but I think more power is what I need right now.

The SDA's have the original SL3000's in them, but came with uninstalled RDo's. So, if the blades are the same size on both, chances are it's the correct RDO?

Oh, thanks, Ben.

[ben62670]

What I did is run a very similar setup as yours. I ran an HK AVR-235 as a Pre for the L/R, and used the receiver for the C/SR/SL set with the XO at 100hz. The levels had to be adjusted, but it worked very admirably for what it was. I ended up getting rid of the center(SDA's work very well without a center), and used another 2 channel for the rears. After that I went nutz, and had over 3000 watts RMS Adcom power for the whole setup. Small steps can be taken to do this. I hate to sound like I am pimping Leroy's gear, but he also has a GFA-545 for sale. This would round things off nicely.
Ben

[F1nut]

No, the correct tweeter will have one wider blade and one thinner blade.

Shoot higher, you will be well rewarded and do not underestimate the benefits of better crossover components.

[ben62670]

.... do not underestimate the benefits of better crossover components.

The stock parts really suck!

[CTTE]

What I did is run a very similar setup as yours. I ran an HK AVR-235 as a Pre for the L/R, and used the receiver for the C/SR/SL set with the XO at 100hz. The levels had to be adjusted, but it worked very admirably for what it was. I ended up getting rid of the center(SDA's work very well without a center), and used another 2 channel for the rears. After that I went nutz, and had over 3000 watts RMS Adcom power for the whole setup. Small steps can be taken to do this. I hate to sound like I am pimping Leroy's gear, but he also has a GFA-545 for sale. This would round things off nicely.
Ben

I don't want to go nutz, Ben - that seems to be your department. It sounds like an extra amp for the SDA's for 2 channel, and dial in the AVR levels for HT with the AVR powering the C/SR/SL is the best way to go for now. I do like the CSi5 center for HT - it adds some brightness that the vintage polks are lacking.

[ben62670]

it adds some brightness that the vintage polks are lacking.

XO upgrade fixes a multitude of sins;) I can't remember a Polkie not being totally pleased after an upgrade.
Ben

[CTTE]

No, the correct tweeter will have one wider blade and one thinner blade.

Shoot higher, you will be well rewarded and do not underestimate the benefits of better crossover components.

I meant same between the SL3000 and RDO. I haven't pulled one of the installed tweeters yet, but the RDO's do have one wider blade and one narrower blade.

Yes, crossover upgrades for all! I have 4 pairs of Monitors plus the SDA's. But right now, the house needs a new roof...

[F1nut]

In that case, you have the right tweeters.

You just bought very nice speakers that will repsond nicely to high quality gear. Save your pennies and go big.

You can thank me later.

[CTTE]

In that case, you have the right tweeters.

You just bought very nice speakers that will repsond nicely to high quality gear. Save your pennies and go big.

You can thank me later.

Thanks, F1. I'll be looking for more advice when funds allow.

One of my daughters had a friend over tonight (last night?) listening to the SDA's and she said they were Cool. The large SDA's may not have much WAF, but they do have OFAF.

[dacoupedeville]

Consider Aragon amps for those 2.3s. I have an 8008x3 and it easily outperforms the Adcoms I have come across (555II and 5500); but for more coin.

These guys are right on with the x-over upgrades. Dont half step. It really clears up the treble. Enjoy.